The Machine

Presented in a stadium-style setting within a former flower market in central Manchester, Garry Kasparov’s legendary battle against super-computer Deep Blue – man vs machine – was thrown into sharp relief by the human dramas that unfolded around it in Matt Charman’s gripping new play. The emotional and dramatic possibilities of chess were unearthed and brought to vital, electric life in this whip-smart and carefully choreographed production.

‘Charman is no ordinary playwright, as his immensely compelling firecracker script revealed. And Josie Rourke, who masterminded the production, is no ordinary director, as was shown by her skilful pacing of the action, by turns fast and furious, and then dramatically breaking into moments of unexpected poignancy’ The Independent

Commissioned and produced by Manchester International Festival, Donmar Warehouse and Park Avenue Armory. Supported by MIF Commissioning Circle.